Pregnancy

If ejaculation occurs during vaginal intercourse at the fertile time of the woman's Menstrual cycle, it is possible that an egg in the woman's fallopian tube will be fertilised by a sperm. Up to one hundred sperm reach the egg and secrete an enzyme that softens the covering of the egg allowing one sperm to enter.

The zygote (cell formed by the union of the sperm and egg) then travels down to the uterus and implants into the lining of the uterus that has been building up. If this occurs, conception is said to have taken place.

Conception today can also take place with the aid of a range of developments in reproductive technology, including invitro fertilisation or fertilisation that takes place in a laboratory, then the fertilised egg is inserted into a woman's uterus.

How do you know you're pregnant?

Possible signs include:

• missed period
• late period or lighter and shorter period
• tender and/or bigger breasts
• tingling nipples
• feeling sick and/or tired
• need to pass urine more often

Pregnancy testing

Urine can be tested to determine if you are pregnant, and this result is available straight away. If your period is at least 3 days late, your urine can be tested. Home pregnancy testing kits are available at pharmacies and some supermarkets. SHine SA also provides a pregnancy testing service. Call to discuss when to come in.

Pregnancy options

Stages of pregnancy and birth

A range of books and DVDs on pregnancy and birth is also available from the SHine SA Library.